Heuchera 'Mahogany Monster' is a dramatic and bold perennial valued for its oversized deeply lobed leaves in rich mahogany to dark chocolate tones. With foliage that intensifies in color through the season and a dense mounding habit, it makes an exceptional contrast plant for shade borders. Tiny white flowers appear on wiry stems in late spring adding airy movement above the foliage without detracting from its bold texture.
Height & Spread: 20 - 24 in x 30 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil enriched with organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; water during dry spells to prevent foliage scorch
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer due to bitter tasting leaves
Native Status
This cultivar originates from hybrids of native North American Heuchera species such as Heuchera villosa. While not itself native, it supports many of the same ecological benefits in shaded woodland gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- The small white flowers attract tiny native bees and syrphid flies that feed on the nectar and assist with pollination.
Butterflies
- Occasionally visited by smaller butterflies such as Spring Azures and Pearl Crescents seeking early nectar sources.
Beneficial Insects
- The dense foliage offers cover for ground beetles and predatory insects that help regulate pest populations.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 24 - 30 in apart to allow full spread and foliage display without crowding neighboring plants.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded beds, woodland edges, and as a contrasting element in mixed foliage plantings with hostas, ferns, or sedges.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silver veined leaves create high contrast with 'Mahogany Monster’s' dark foliage.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomons Seal) - Elegant arching stems and variegated leaves pair well with the bold heuchera form.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Large blue green foliage softens and balances the rich tones of heuchera.
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) - Coppery fronds echo the foliage tones of 'Mahogany Monster' in spring.
- Carex oshimensis 'Everillo' - Chartreuse blades provide brilliant color contrast and fine texture in shade.